As someone living on Turtle Island (what the Indigenous refer to as the continent of North America), we should have a better understanding of the land that we’re on, and what better way to make this connection than by having your first pow wow experience in Canada?
In this guide, we’ll dive into our experiences at the Garden River First Nation Pow Wow in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario which will give you a good sense of what to expect at your first pow wow.
Read more about Canada
Looking for deals on rental cars?
- If you’re doing a road trip, you’ll want to make sure you get the best deal on a short or long term rental. Make sure you use one of these car rental coupon codes to get a great rate.
Here’s what we’re covering:
What is a Pow Wow?
Pow wows are special events that hold cultural significance because it’s an important community gathering of First Nations to celebrate their rich ancestral history.
It’s a gathering that’s meant to ignite your spirit and celebrate Indigenous arts, culture, and music with everyone that attends. It’s sacred and is a place of healing as well.
As celebrations of Indigenous culture, the event is deeply rooted in continuing to carry on tradition whether it be through dance, story, and ceremony.
There was a time not too long ago when pow wows weren’t allowed and it was actually illegal for the First Nations to practice religious ceremonies, such as pow wows, in Canada. With reconciliation, it is now allowed to commemorate, honour, and keep in Indigenous traditions.
Are pow wows open to everyone?
Yes, anyone can attend pow wows whether you’re a local, traveller, Indigenous, or non-Indigenous.
Where Can You Go To Pow Wows in Canada?
There are pow wows across Canada every year and the First Nations that have them and their dates change so it’s best to consult a few calendars to see where you can go to experience your first pow wow.
National Calendars
Pow wows by Province and Territory in Canada
The above is by no means complete, but is a great place to start your search.
TIP: We’ve found that most lists of pow wow events aren’t complete and so we recommend that you check multiple resources listed below and also Google because many First Nations don’t promote outside of their own websites and Facebook groups.
Making Your First Pow wow Experience…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Going Awesome Places…